Plaza de la Alfalfa (16)

This small tree-lined plaza in the heart of Seville gets its name from the time when it used to host a hay market. Over the years, many historic events that have taken place here, and the plaza has undergone many name changes. Yet these changes have not affected its popular name, because for as long as anyone can remember, it has been called the Plaza de la Alfalfa, regardless of the name on the plaque.

If you stop here on Sunday mornings, you’ll find birds, fish, turtles, even silkworms... as it hosts an animal market. In fact, this market is of special importance, because it is considered the oldest of its kind in Europe. In modern times, the variety of animals that you will find here is enormous, from the most common to the most exotic, though there are also accessories, food and all types of pet care equipment for sale.

Furthermore, if you take a short walk around the plaza, you’ll come across the Iglesia de San Isidoro, which dates from the 14th century. You’ll recognise it from its portico, crowned by a Mudejar star. Inside is the main altarpiece, created by Felipe del Castillo in 1752, over which hangs the canvas “Transito de San Isidoro,” by Juan de Róelas in 1613.

And in the chapel of the “Hermandad de las Tres Caídas” there is an 18th century baroque altarpiece, with its beloved “Nazareno,” created by Ruiz Gijón in 1687 and flanked by “San Isidoro” and “San Leandro,” sculptures crafted by Cesáreo Ramos in 1805. On one side of the chapel of this brotherhood is a vaulted niche that is home to “Simón Cirineo,” a carving that accompanies “Nazareno” in the procession, also created by Ruiz Gijón in 1687.